After reading about low expectations for a high school diploma and limiting homework, I am concerned that we are becoming a soft, wimpy, mediocre society. How sad! What good is improving the high school graduation rate and having graduates with averages and test grades of 90 percent unprepared for college-level courses?

Although this may make our politicians “look good,” it is a tremendous disservice to students.

Rather than easing up on homework that may be characterized by excessive, repetitive practice, why not ensure that the quality of the homework supports time well spent? Otherwise, homework time could easily be replaced with video games, texting and other nonacademic activities. Is that what will lead to a productive, competitive work force?

Where we are today is no better than where we were in 1983, when “A Nation at Risk” alerted us to the dangers of academic complacency. We need a shift in attitudes and values that support a strong work ethic and high expectations and standards.

FRANCES R. CURCIO
Flushing, Queens, Oct. 24, 2011

The writer is a professor of mathematics education, secondary education and youth services at Queens College, CUNY.